Ex-Kentucky star Rex Chapman: John Calipari is 'done deal' to Lakers

Kentucky Coach John Calipari instructs his players during Monday's NCAA championship game against Connecticut. Is Calipari interested in coaching the Lakers?

Kentucky Coach John Calipari instructs his players during Monday's NCAA championship game against Connecticut. Is Calipari interested in coaching the Lakers? (Ronald Martinez / Getty Images)

Chris Dufresne

ARLINGTON, Texas — Nothing like putting out a juicy oh-by-the-way rumor before the biggest college basketball game of the season.

But former Kentucky star Rex Chapman tweeted before Monday night's national title game that Kentucky Coach John Calipari will be the next coach of the Lakers.

Chapman doesn't site any sources or offer any timetable. Calipari said this week he was probably going to need his hip replaced shortly after Monday night's title game between Kentucky and Connecticut.

The Lakers denied have any conversations with Calipari.

"I spoke to [General Manager] Mitch Kupchak and he said the rumor is untrue," Lakers spokesman John Black said. "Mike D'Antoni is our coach. There have been no conversations about any specific names for any replacement."